DUAL POWER / SENSOR PORT WITH DYNAMIC SWITCHING

Abstract

DUAL POWER / SENSOR PORT WITH DYNAMIC SWITCHING System (1000), including a device (105) comprising a first connector, a processor, and a power supply, and at least one accessory (110A, 110B, 110C) comprising a second connector, wherein the at least one accessory (110A, 110B, 110C) is configured to be coupled to the device (105). When the device (105) and the at least one accessory (110A, 110B, 110C) are coupled, the first connector makes contact with the second connector, wherein the first and second connectors are rotationally symmetrical, and the second connector is configured to couple to the first connector in a plurality of orientations.When the first connector is paired with the second connector, the processor is configured to sense a load level from at least one accessory (110A, 110B, 110C), and when the load level is below a load threshold, to switch between sensing the load level and charging with the power source. Figure for the abbreviation: 1.

Description

Title of the invention: DUAL POWER SUPPLY / SENSOR PORT WITH DYNAMIC SWITCHING SUMMARY

[0001] In one aspect, a system is disclosed here, including a device with a first connector, a processor and a power supply, and at least one accessory including a second connector, wherein the at least one accessory is configured to be coupled to the device, wherein, when the device and the at least one accessory are coupled, the first connector comes into contact with the second connector, wherein the first connector and the second connector are rotationally symmetrical, such that the second connector is configured to couple to the first connector in a plurality of orientations.In some embodiments, during operation when the first connector couples to the second connector, the processor is configured to sense a charge level from at least one accessory, and when the charge level is below a predetermined charge threshold, to switch between sensing the charge level of at least one accessory and charging at least one accessory with the power source.

[0002] In some embodiments, the first connector comprises a first plurality of contacts, and the second connector comprises a second plurality of contacts. In some embodiments, the number of contacts in the first plurality of contacts is equal to the number of contacts in the second plurality of contacts. In some embodiments, the first plurality of contacts includes a first central contact and two first auxiliary contacts, and the second plurality of contacts includes a second central contact and two second auxiliary contacts. In some embodiments, the first central contact is configured to couple with the second central contact, and one or the other of the first auxiliary contacts is configured to couple with one or the other of the second auxiliary contacts.

[0003] In some embodiments, the device further includes a current sensor configured to monitor the current of at least one accessory, and a sensing unit configured to sense the load of at least one accessory. In some embodiments, during operation, the processor receives an indicator signal of a monitored current level from the current sensor and cuts off the power supply and activates the sensing unit when the monitored current level is below a current threshold. In some embodiments, the current threshold condition is indicative of no power being drawn as measured by the current sensor. In some embodiments, the first The central contact and the second central contact are configured to switch between a load line and a communication line based on the measured load level.

[0004] In some embodiments, at least one accessory includes a battery and a power line monitoring device, and when the first connector makes contact with the second connector, the processor is further configured to receive a charge level detected by the power line monitoring device, and when the charge level is below the predetermined charge threshold, to switch between communicating with at least one accessory and charging the battery of at least one accessory. In some embodiments, the device includes a first switching circuit and a first single-line bus, and the processor is further configured to, when the charge level is below the predetermined charge threshold, disconnect the power supply and activate the first single-line bus.In some embodiments, at least one accessory further comprises a second switching circuit and a second single-line bus, and an accessory processor, where the accessory processor is configured to receive a charge level from the power line monitoring device, when the charge level is below a predetermined charge threshold, transmit the charge level to the first processor, when the charge level is above the predetermined threshold, switch to the second single-line bus, and communicate with the first processor to stop charging the battery.

[0005] In another aspect, a method for switching between charging and communicating with an accessory is disclosed herein. The method includes connecting a first connector of a device to a second connector of the accessory, where the first connector has a first plurality of contacts and the second connector has a second plurality of contacts. In some embodiments, the number of contacts in the first plurality of contacts is equal to the number of contacts in the second plurality of contacts, and the second connector is configured to couple to the second connector in a first plurality of orientations, sensing a charge level from at least one accessory when the charge level is below a predetermined threshold, and switching between sensing the charge level from at least one accessory and charging at least one accessory with a power supply from the device.

[0006] In some embodiments, the first connector comprises a first plurality of contacts, and the second connector comprises a second plurality of contacts. In some embodiments, the number of contacts in the first plurality of contacts is equal to the number of contacts in the second plurality of contacts. In some embodiments, the first plurality of contacts includes a first central contact and two first auxiliary contacts, and in which the The second plurality of contacts includes a second central contact and two second auxiliary contacts. In some embodiments, the first central contact is configured to interact with the second central contact, and one or the other of the first two auxiliary contacts is configured to interact with one or the other of the two auxiliary contacts.

[0007] In some embodiments, the method further includes receiving a monitored current from a current sensor of at least one accessory, when the monitored current is below a current threshold, switching off the power supply, and activating a sensing unit of the device, wherein the sensing unit is configured to sense the charge level of at least one accessory.

[0008] In some embodiments, the at least one accessory further comprises a battery and an accessory processor, and wherein the method further includes transmitting a charge request from the accessory processor to the device processor, transmitting the charge level from the accessory processor to the device processor when the charge level exceeds a second threshold, transmitting a stop-charge request to the processor, switching off the power supply, and activating a communication line between the device and the at least one accessory with the device processor. In some embodiments, the communication line between the device and the at least one accessory is facilitated by a first single-line bus on the device and a second single-line bus on the at least one accessory.

[0009] In some embodiments, the device includes a first switching circuit, the accessory includes a second switching circuit, and the switching from sensing the load level of at least one accessory to charging at least one accessory includes the transmission of a load request to the device processor, when the load level is above the predetermined threshold, the switching from the transmission of the load request to the transmission of a non-load request with the accessory switching circuit, when the non-load request is received by the device processor, the interruption of the power supply, and the activation of a communication line between the device and at least one accessory with the device processor with the second switching circuit.

[0010] This summary is intended to present a selection of concepts in a simplified form, which are described in greater detail below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0011] The foregoing aspects and many related advantages of this invention will be more readily appreciated as they are better understood with reference to the following detailed description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0012] [Fig.1A] The [Fig.1A] is an example of a system, in accordance with the present technology;

[0013] [Fig.1B] The [Fig.1B] is an example of a system, in accordance with the present technology;

[0014] [Fig. IC] Fig. IC is a front side perspective view of an example of device of the example system of [Fig.1B], in accordance with the present technology;

[0015] [Fig.1D] The [Fig.1D] is a rear side perspective view of the example device of the example system of the [Fig.1B], in accordance with the present technology;

[0016] [Fig.1E] The [Fig.1E] is a front side perspective view of an example accessory of the example system of the [Fig.1B], in accordance with the present technology;

[0017] [Fig.1F] The [Fig.1F] is a rear side perspective view of the accessory example of the system example of the [Fig.1B], in accordance with the present technology;

[0018] [Fig.2A] The [Fig.2A] is an example of a system, in accordance with the present technology;

[0019] [Fig.2B] [Fig.2C] [Fig.2D] [Fig.2E] Figures 2B to 2E show the example system of [Fig.2A] in various orientations, in accordance with the present technology;

[0020] [Fig.3] Fig.3 is an example of a circuit diagram of a system, in accordance with the present technology;

[0021] [Fig.4] Fig.4 is another example of a circuit diagram of a system, in accordance with this technology;

[0022] [Fig. 5] Fig. 5 is an example of a method, in accordance with the present technology ;

[0023] [Fig. 6] Fig. 6 is another example of a method, in accordance with the present technology ;

[0024] [Fig.7] Fig.7 is another example of a method, in accordance with the present technology.

[0025] A system and associated methods for switching between the sensing and charging of an accessory with a device are disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the accessory and the device each include a connector (i.e., a first connector on the device and a second connector on the accessory). In some embodiments, the first and second connectors are configured to couple the device and the accessory. In some embodiments, the first and second connectors are rotationally symmetrical, i.e., the accessory and / or the device can be oriented in various directions and still couple to the first and second connectors.In operation, when the first connector and the second connector are physically coupled (or brought into contact), the device can switch between sensing a charge level from the accessory and, when the charge level drops to or below a predetermined threshold, charging the accessory.

[0026] In some embodiments, the accessory is at least one accessory of a plurality of accessories. In some embodiments, a device may be packaged and / or sold with a plurality of accessories, each having a second symmetrical rotating connector. In this way, the device can switch between capturing and charging each accessory of the plurality of accessories, according to the wishes of a user of the system. For example, the device may be a handle of a hair care device, such as a curling iron or a hairbrush, and each accessory of the plurality of accessories may be a different curling wand or motorized brush head.

[0027] Figure 1A is an example of a system 1000, according to the present technology. In one aspect, a system 1000 is disclosed herein, including a device 105 and a plurality of accessories 110A, 110B, HOC. In some embodiments, there may be three accessories in the plurality of accessories, but those skilled in the art should recognize that there may be any number of accessories in the plurality of accessories, including a single accessory. In some embodiments, at least one accessory 110A from the plurality of accessories 110A, 110B, 110C is configured to be coupled to the device 105. In some embodiments, the device 105 is configured to be coupled to any accessory 110A, 110B, HOC, from the plurality of accessories 110A, 110B, HOC.

[0028] In operation, when the device 105 is coupled to at least one 110A accessory, the device 105 is configured to detect a charge level from the at least one 110A accessory. When the charge level is below a predetermined charge threshold, the device 105 switches between detecting the charge level from the at least one 110A accessory and charging the at least one 110A accessory.

[0029] Figure 1B is an example of a system 1000 according to the present technology. In some embodiments, the device 105 includes a first connector 115. In some embodiments, at least one accessory 110A (also referred to herein as "the accessory") includes a second connector 125. In some embodiments, the first connector 115 comprises a first plurality of contacts 120A, 120B, 120C, and the second connector 125 comprises a second plurality of contacts 130A, 130B, 130C. In some embodiments, the number of contacts in the first plurality of contacts 120A, 120B, 120C is equal to the number of contacts in the second plurality of contacts 130A, 130B, 130C. For example, in some embodiments, the number of contacts in the first plurality of contacts 120A, 120B, 120C is three and the number of contacts in the second plurality of contacts 130A, 130B, 130C is three.In some embodiments, the first plurality of contacts 120A, 120B, 120C is configured to align and interact with the second plurality of contacts 130A, 130B, 130C. In some embodiments, the first plurality of contacts 120A, 120B, 120C, the second plurality of contacts 130A, 130B, 130C, or both, are pins, copper pads, physical connectors, or a combination thereof.

[0030] In operation, at least one accessory 110A can be coupled to the device 105 in a plurality of orientations, as shown in Figures 2B to 2E. In some embodiments, when the device 105 and at least one accessory 110A are coupled, the device 105 senses a charge level from the accessory 110A, and when the charge level is below a predetermined charge threshold, charges at least one accessory 110A, as shown and described in detail in Figures 3 and 4.

[0031] Figure [1C] is a front side perspective view DI of an example device 105 of the example system 1000 of [Fig.1B], according to the present technology. Figure [1D] is a rear side perspective view D2 of the example device 105 of the example system 1000 of [Fig.1B], according to the present technology.

[0032] In some embodiments, the first plurality of contacts 120A, 120B, 145A includes a first central contact 145A and two first auxiliary contacts 120A, 120B. In some embodiments, the first connector 115 is rotationally symmetrical, such that the first connector 115 is configured to couple to a second connector of an accessory (such as accessory 110) in a plurality of orientations, as shown and described in detail in Figures 2B to 2E. In some embodiments, the device 105 includes at least one first side (or front side) DI and a second side (or rear side) D2. In some embodiments, the first connector 115 is rotationally symmetrical such that the first connector 115 is symmetrical on the first side DI and the second side D2 (i.e., rotationally symmetrical about a 180-degree rotation around the first center contact 145A). In some embodiments, the first connector 115 is rotationally symmetrical about the first center contact 145A. In some embodiments, such as when the first plurality of contacts 120A, 120B, 145A is greater than three, the first connector 115 may be rotationally symmetrical from more than just the first DI side and the second D2 side. In such embodiments, the first connector 115 may be configured to couple to an accessory in any rotational orientation (such as a 90-degree rotation, a 15-degree rotation, or similar about the first center contact 145A). Consequently, both the first and second connectors may exhibit rotational symmetry of 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or n times.

[0033] In some embodiments, the first central contact 145A is configured to establish a communication link and / or a load link between the device 105 and an accessory (such as the accessory 110). In some embodiments, the first central contact 145A may be a ground, as shown in [Fig. 5].

[0034] In some embodiments, the first auxiliary contacts 120A, 120B are configured to supply power to two second auxiliary contacts of an accessory (as shown in Figures 1E to 1F). In some embodiments, the first two auxiliary contacts 120A, 120B are positive terminals, as shown in [Fig. 3]. In some embodiments, the first two auxiliary contacts 120A and 120B are configured to supply power from a power supply of the device 105 to the accessory, as shown in [Fig. 3]. In some embodiments, the first two auxiliary contacts 120A, 120B are grounds, as shown in [Fig. 4].

[0035] Figure [1E] is a front side perspective view A1 of an accessory example 110 of the system example 1000 of Figure [1B], according to the present technology. Figure [1F] is a rear side perspective view A2 of the accessory example 110 of the system example 1000 of Figure [1B], according to the present technology.

[0036] In some embodiments, the second plurality of contacts 130A, 130B, 145B includes a second central contact 145B and two second auxiliary contacts 130A, 130B. In some embodiments, the second connector 125 is rotationally symmetrical, so that the second connector 125 is configured to couple to a first connector of a device (such as the device 105) in a plurality of orientations, as shown and described in detail in Figures 2B to 2E. In some embodiments, the accessory includes at least one first side (or front side) A1 and a second side (or rear side) A2. In some embodiments, the second connector 125 is rotationally symmetrical such that the second connector 125 is symmetrical about the first side A1 and the second side A2 (i.e., rotationally symmetrical about a 180-degree rotation around the second center contact 145B). In some embodiments, the second connector 125 is rotationally symmetrical about the second center contact 145B. In some embodiments, such as when the second plurality of contacts 130A, 130B, 145B is greater than three, the second connector 125 may be rotationally symmetrical about more than just the first side A1 and the second side A2.In such embodiments, the second connector 125 can be configured to couple to a device in any orientation of rotation (such as a 90-degree rotation, a 15-degree rotation, or similar around the second center contact 145B).

[0037] In some embodiments, the second central contact 145B is configured to establish a communication link between the device 105 and an accessory (such as accessory 110). In some embodiments, the second central contact 145B is a ground.

[0038] In some embodiments, the two second auxiliary contacts 130A, 130B are configured to receive power to the first two auxiliary contacts of a device (as shown in Figures 1E to 1F). In some embodiments, the two second auxiliary contacts 130A, 130B are positive terminals, as shown in [Fig. 3]. In some embodiments, the two second auxiliary contacts 130A, 130B are configured to receive power from the first two auxiliary contacts of a device to the accessory 110 or to a battery of the accessory, as shown in Figures 3 and 4. In some embodiments, the two second auxiliary contacts 130A and 130B are grounds, as shown in [Fig. 4].

[0039] Figure 2A is an example of a system 2000 according to the present technology. In some embodiments, the system 2000 includes a device 205 and an accessory 210. In some embodiments, the device 105 includes a first central contact 245A, two first auxiliary contacts 220A, 220B, and two first fixings 235A, 235B. In some embodiments, the accessory 210 includes a second central contact 245B, two second auxiliary contacts 230A, 230B, and two second fixings 240A, 240B.

[0040] In some embodiments, the first central contact 145A is configured to couple with the second central contact 145B, and either of the first auxiliary contacts 120A, 120B is configured to couple with either of the second auxiliary contacts 130A, 130B, as shown in Figures 2B to 2E.

[0041] In some embodiments, the first fasteners 235A, 235B and / or the second fasteners 240A, 240B may be magnets, clasps, notches, pins, connectors having a male or female component, a combination thereof, or the like. In some embodiments, the first fasteners 235A, 235B are rotationally symmetrical about the first central contact 245A, and the second fasteners 240A, 240B are rotationally symmetrical about the second central contact 245B, so that the first fasteners 235A, 235B and the second fasteners 240A, 240B can couple in any number of orientations, as shown in Figures 2B to 2E.

[0042] In operation, when the device 105 and at least one accessory 110A, 110B, HOC are coupled, the first connector 115 comes into contact with the second connector 125. In some embodiments, the first fixings 235A, 235B and the second fixings 240A, 240B are configured to couple in various orientations, as shown in Figures 2B to 2E.

[0043] Figures 2B to 2E show the example of the system of [Fig.2A], with the accessory and the device coupled in a plurality of orientations, in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the device 205 and the accessory 210 can be coupled to the first connector 115 and the second connector 125 in a plurality of orientations, such as with a front side Al of the accessory in the same plane as a front side of the device DI ([Fig.2B]), a rear side A2 of the accessory in the same plane as a front side of the device DI ([Fig.2C]), a front side Al of the accessory in the same plane as a rear side of the device D2 ([Fig.2C]), and a rear side A2 of the accessory in the same plane as a rear side of the device D2 ([Fig.2E]).

[0044] A person skilled in the art should understand that, depending on the design of the device 105, the accessory 110, the first connector 115, and the second connector 125, any number of sides and / or orientations may be possible. For example, in an embodiment where the first connector 115 and the second connector 125 include a first central contact 145A and a plurality of first auxiliary contacts 120A, 120B arranged in a first ring, and a second central contact 1245B and a plurality of second auxiliary contacts 130A, 130B arranged in a second ring, the device 105 and the accessory 110 could each be rotated, independently or in tandem, while still allowing the coupling of the first connector 115A and the second connector 115B.Furthermore, a person skilled in the art should understand that the device 105 and / or the accessory 110 can have any number of sides, and these sides can be flat, curved, rounded, beveled, labeled, organically shaped, geometrically shaped, and / or include one or more planes. In some embodiments, the first side DI of the device and the second side D2 of the device. are distinct from each other in color, shape, size, or similar characteristics. Similarly, in some embodiments, the first side A1 of the accessory and the second side A2 of the accessory are distinct from each other in color, shape, size, or similar characteristics. In some embodiments, the first side DI of the device is substantially identical to the second side DI of the device, and / or the first side A1 of the accessory is substantially identical to the second side A2 of the accessory.

[0045] Figure 3 is an example of a circuit diagram of a 3000 system, according to the present technology. Those skilled in the art should understand that the circuit diagram can be incorporated into either the 1000 or 2000 system as described and shown herein. Furthermore, the 3000 system can be incorporated in any orientation shown in Figures 2B to 2E or otherwise described herein.

[0046] In some embodiments, the system 3000 includes a device 305 and an accessory 310. In some embodiments, the accessory 310 includes a second connector 325. In some embodiments, the second connector 325 includes a plurality of contacts 330A, 330B, 345B. In some embodiments, the plurality of contacts 330A, 330B, 345B includes a second central contact 345B and two second auxiliary contacts 330A, 330B.

[0047] In some embodiments, the device 305 includes a first connector 315. In some embodiments, the first connector 315 includes a plurality of contacts 320A, 320B, 345A. In some embodiments, the plurality of contacts includes a first central contact 345A and two first auxiliary contacts 320A, 320B. In some embodiments, the device 305 includes a processor 355, a switching circuit 360, a power supply 365, a sensing circuit (or sensing unit) 370, and a current sensor 375.

[0048] In some embodiments, the first auxiliary contacts 320A, 320B and the second auxiliary contacts 330A, 330B are positive terminals, indicated by "V+" in [Fig. 3]. In some embodiments, the first two auxiliary contacts 120A and 120B are configured to supply power from a power supply 365 of the device 105 to the accessory 110. In some embodiments, the second central contact 345B is a ground (GND).

[0049] In some embodiments, the first central contact 345A is connected via communication and / or physically to the switching circuit 360 and the sensing circuit 370. In some embodiments, the switching circuit 360 is a relay circuit, a metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET), or similar. In some embodiments, the switching circuit 360 is connected via communication and / or physically to the current sensor 375.

[0050] In operation, when the first connector 315 is coupled to the second connector 325, the first center contact 345A and the second center contact 345B are connected via communication and / or physical connection. In some embodiments, the first two auxiliary contacts 320A, 320B are connected via communication and / or physical connection to the second two auxiliary contacts 330A, 330B. In some embodiments, the first connector 315 and the second connector 325 are mutually compatible in rotation. Consequently, in some embodiments, either of the first auxiliary contacts 320A, 320B can be connected via communication and / or physical connection to either of the second auxiliary contacts 330A, 330B, as shown in Figures 2B to 2E.In some embodiments, the first central contact 345A and the second central contact 345B are configured to switch between a load line (i.e., to facilitate the charging of the accessory 310) and a communication line (i.e., to facilitate the sensing of the charge level (or the charge level sensing state) of the accessory 310) on the basis of the measured charge level.

[0051] When the first connector 315 and the second connector 325 are coupled, the sensing unit 370 senses a charge level from the accessory 310. In some embodiments, when the charge level is below a predetermined threshold (also referred to herein as the first predetermined charge threshold), the switching circuit 360 switches to the accessory's load by activating the power supply 365. In some embodiments, the power supply 365 charges the accessory via a connection between a first auxiliary pin 220A, 220B and a second auxiliary pin 230A, 230B. In some embodiments, the predetermined threshold is when the charge level is at or about 0, i.e., when the accessory 310 is "flat" or otherwise unable to function. In some embodiments, the predetermined threshold is at or approximately at a percentage of the total load level of the accessory, such as 5%, 10%, or 15%.

[0052] In some embodiments, the current sensor 375 is configured to monitor power draw from at least one accessory 310. In some embodiments, when the load level is at or below a predetermined threshold, the power supply 365 is activated, and the current sensor 375 then detects the power draw. When the power draw is at or below a current threshold, the switching circuit 360 switches from the power supply 365 to the sensing unit 370. In some embodiments, the current threshold is reached when no power draw (or zero draw) is measured by the current sensor 375.

[0053] Figure 4 is another example of a circuit diagram of a 4000 system, in accordance with the present technology. Those skilled in the art should understand that the circuit diagram can be incorporated into the 1000 or 2000 system as described and shown here. In addition, the 4000 system can be incorporated in any orientation shown in Figures 2B to 2E or otherwise described here.

[0054] In some embodiments, the device 405 includes a device processor (or first processor) 455A, a first switching circuit 460, a power supply 465, and a first single-line bus 470A. In some embodiments, the accessory 410 includes a battery 475, a power line monitoring device 480, a second switching circuit 460B, and a second single-line bus 470B.

[0055] The person skilled in the art should understand that, as described herein, the first single-line bus 470A and the second single-line bus 470B can be master / agent buses that communicate via a single signal wire and ground (such as the first center contact 145A and the second center contact 145B, respectively). The device and / or accessory can communicate on the first single-line bus 470A and the second single-line bus 470B, respectively, by pulling a signal to ground and sampling a logic level from the signal line.

[0056] In operation, when the first connector 415 is coupled to the second connector 425, the first center contact 445A and the second center contact 445B are connected by communication and / or physically. In some embodiments, the first two auxiliary contacts 420A, 420B are connected by communication and / or physically with the second two auxiliary contacts 430A, 430B. In some embodiments, the first connector 415 and the second connector 425 are mutually oriented. Consequently, in some embodiments, either of the first auxiliary contacts 420A, 420B can be connected by communication and / or physically to either of the second auxiliary contacts 430A, 430B, as shown in Figures 2B to 2E.In some embodiments, the first central contact 445A and the second central contact 445B are configured to switch between a load line (i.e., to facilitate the charging of the accessory 410) and a communication line (i.e., to facilitate the sensing of the charge level of the accessory 410) on the basis of the measured charge level.

[0057] In some embodiments, the first auxiliary contacts 420A, 420B and the second auxiliary contacts 430A, 430B are grounds, indicated by "GND" in [Fig. 4]. In some embodiments, the first central contact 445A and the second central contact 445B are positive terminals, "V+".

[0058] During operation, when the first connector 415 is coupled to the second connector 425, the device processor 455A receives a load level detected by the power line monitoring device 480, and when the load level is below the predetermined load threshold, the device 405 switches between Communication with at least one accessory 410 and charging of the battery 475 of at least one accessory 410. In some embodiments, the device processor 455A is further configured to, when the charge level is below the predetermined charge threshold, disconnect (or switch off) the power source 465 and activate the first single-line bus 470A. In some embodiments, the accessory processor 455B is configured to receive a charge level from the power line monitoring device 480, and when the charge level is below a predetermined charge threshold, transmit the charge level to the device processor 455A. In some embodiments, when the charge level is above the predetermined threshold, the second switching circuit 460B switches to the second single-line bus 470B and communicates with the device processor 455A to stop charging the battery 475.

[0059] In some embodiments, the accessory processor 455B is configured to transmit a load request to the device processor 455A. In some embodiments, when the load level is above or at a second threshold, a no-load request is transmitted from the accessory processor 455B to the device processor 455A. In some embodiments, the no-load request is the absence of a load request.

[0060] Figure 5 is an example of a method 500 according to the present technology. In some embodiments, the method 500 can be implemented with the system 1000, 2000, 3000, and / or 4000 as disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the system includes a device (such as device 105, 205, 305, 405) and an accessory (such as accessory 110, 210, 310, 410). In some embodiments, the device includes a first connector (such as first connector 115, 215, 315, 415) and the accessory has a second connector (such as second connector 125, 225, 325, 425). In some embodiments, the first connector and / or the second connector are rotationally symmetrical, so that the device and the accessory can be coupled in a plurality of orientations, as shown in Figures 2B to 2E.

[0061] At block 505, the charge level of the accessory is detected. In some embodiments, the charge level is detected with a sensing unit, such as sensing unit 370, in [Fig. 3]. In some embodiments, sensing unit 370 is connected in communication to a first center contact (such as first center contact 145A, 245A, 345A, 445A) and / or to a device processor (such as processor 355).

[0062] In decision block 510, it is determined whether the accessory's charge level is below a predetermined threshold. In some embodiments, the predetermined threshold is when the accessory's charge level is at or near zero. In some embodiments, the predetermined threshold is lower than a load level, such as less than approximately 5%, 10%, or 15% load. If the load is below the predetermined threshold, the process switches to block 515A.

[0063] At block 515A, the accessory is charged. In some embodiments, the accessory is charged by switching from the sensing unit to a power source (such as power source 365) with a switching circuit (such as switching circuit 360). In some embodiments, the switching circuit activates the power source to begin charging the accessory. In some embodiments, the power source is connected in communication to one of the first two auxiliary contacts (such as the first two auxiliary contacts 120A, 120B, 220A, 220B, 320A, 320B, 420A, 420B).

[0064] At decision block 520, after the accessory has been charged, it is determined whether the charge level exceeds the predetermined threshold. In some embodiments, the charge level is detected after a predetermined charging time. If the charge level does not exceed the predetermined threshold, the process returns to block 515A. If the charge level exceeds the predetermined threshold, the process proceeds to block 515B.

[0065] At block 515B, the charge level of the accessory is detected. In some embodiments, the switching circuit switches from the current sensor to the sensing unit.

[0066] Returning to block 510, if the load level is not below the predetermined threshold, the process proceeds to block 515B.

[0067] Figure 6 is another example of method 600, according to the present technology. In some embodiments, method 500 can be implemented with system 1000, 2000, 3000, and / or 4000 as disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the method includes a device (such as device 105, 205, 305, 405) and an accessory (such as accessory 110, 210, 310, 410). In some embodiments, the device includes a first connector (such as first connector 115, 215, 315, 415) and the accessory has a second connector (such as second connector 125, 225, 325, 425). In some embodiments, the first connector and / or the second connector are rotationally symmetrical, so that the device and the accessory can be coupled in a plurality of orientations, as shown in Figures 2B to 2E.

[0068] In block 610, a monitored current from a current sensor (such as current sensor 375) is received from at least one accessory. In some embodiments, the current sensor is connected in communication to a switching circuit (such as switching circuit 360). In some embodiments, the switching circuit switches between a sensing unit and the switching circuit.

[0069] At block 610, the monitored current is transmitted to a processor (such as device processor 365).

[0070] In decision block 615, it is determined whether a power draw is at or below a current threshold. In some embodiments, the current threshold is reached when the current sensor no longer detects a power draw. In some embodiments, this occurs when the accessory is fully charged, i.e., when the accessory's charge level reaches 100%. In some embodiments, the charge level is detected or captured after a predetermined time has elapsed, such as 15 minutes, 30 minutes, or one hour. When the power draw is above the current threshold, the process returns to block 610. When the power draw is at or below the current threshold, the process proceeds to block 620.

[0071] At block 620, the power supply is cut off. In some embodiments, a switching circuit switches from the power supply to the sensing circuit.

[0072] At block 625, the sensing circuit is activated.

[0073] Figure 7 is another example of method 700, in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the method includes a device (such as device 105, 205, 305, 405) and an accessory (such as accessory 110, 210, 310, 410). In some embodiments, the device includes a first connector (such as first connector 115, 215, 315, 415) and the accessory has a second connector (such as second connector 125, 225, 325, 425). In some embodiments, the first connector and / or the second connector are rotationally symmetrical, so that the device and the accessory can be coupled in a plurality of orientations, as shown in Figures 2B to 2E.

[0074] In decision block 720, it is determined whether the load level is at or below a predetermined threshold. In some embodiments, the predetermined threshold is when the load level of the accessory is at or about zero. In some embodiments, the predetermined threshold is below a load level, such as less than about 5%, 10%, or 15% load. If the load level is above the predetermined threshold, the process returns to block 705. If the load is below the predetermined threshold, the process proceeds to block 715.

[0075] At block 715, a load request is transmitted. In some embodiments, the load request is transmitted from an accessory processor (such as the accessory processor 355B) to a device processor (such as the device processor 355A).

[0076] In decision block 720, it is determined whether a load level exceeds a second threshold. In some embodiments, when the load level is not If the load level is above the second threshold, the process returns to block 715. If the load level is above the second threshold, the process moves to block 725.

[0077] At block 725, a no-load request is transmitted. In some embodiments, the no-load request simply means that the load request is not transmitted. In some embodiments, the no-load request is transmitted from the accessory processor to the device processor.

[0078] At block 730, a power supply (such as power supply 365) is switched off. In some embodiments, a switching circuit (such as switching circuit 360A) switches from the power supply to the sensing circuit.

[0079] At block 735, a communication line between the device and the accessory is activated. In some embodiments, the communication line is established between the first center contact (such as the first center contact 345A, 445A) and the second center contact (such as the second center contact 345B, 445B).

[0080] It should be understood that all processes 500, 600, and 700 are to be interpreted as merely representative. In certain embodiments, the process blocks of all processes 500, 600, and 700 may be carried out simultaneously, sequentially, in a different order, or even omitted, without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0081] Although illustrative embodiments have been shown and described, it should be appreciated that various changes can be made to them without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0082] This application may refer to quantities and numbers. Unless otherwise specified, these quantities and numbers are not to be considered restrictive, but rather representative of the possible quantities or numbers associated with this application. Similarly, in this regard, this application may use the term "plurality" to refer to a quantity or number. In this regard, the term "plurality" is understood to mean any number greater than one, for example, two, three, four, five, etc. The terms "about," "approximately," "near," etc., mean plus or minus 5% of the stated value. For the purposes of this disclosure, the expression "at least one of A, B, and C," for example, means (A), (B), (C), (A and B), (A and C), (B and C), or (A, B, and C), including all other possible permutations when more than three items are listed.

[0083] The embodiments disclosed herein may use circuitry to implement the technologies and methodologies described herein, operationally connect two or more components, generate information, determine operating conditions, control an apparatus, device, or process, and / or the like. Any type of circuitry may be used. In one embodiment of In implementation, the circuitry includes, among other things, one or more computing devices such as a processor (e.g., a microprocessor), a central processing unit (CPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or the like, or any combination thereof, and may include elements or electronics of separate digital or analog circuits, or combinations thereof.

[0084] An embodiment includes one or more data stores that, for example, store instructions or data. Non-limiting examples of one or more data stores include volatile memory (e.g., random access memory (RAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), and the like), non-volatile memory (e.g., read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable read-only memory (EEPROM), compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), and the like), persistent memory, or the like. Other non-limiting examples of one or more data stores include erasable and programmable read-only memory (EPROM), flash memory, or the like. One or more data stores may be connected, for example, to one or more computing devices by one or more instructions, data, or power buses.

[0085] In one embodiment, the circuitry includes a computer-readable media player or a memory slot configured to accept a signal-carrying medium (for example, computer-readable memory storage, computer-readable recording storage, or the like). In one embodiment, a program for causing a system to perform any of the disclosed processes may be stored, for example, on computer-readable recording storage (CRMM), a signal-carrying medium, or the like.Non-limiting examples of signal-carrying media include recordable media such as any form of flash memory, magnetic tape, floppy disk, hard disk drive, compact disc (CD), digital video disc (DVD), Blu-Ray disc, digital tape, computer memory, or the like, and transmission media such as digital and / or analog communication media (e.g., fiber optic cable, waveguide, wired communication link, wireless communication link (e.g., transmitter, receiver, transceiver, transmission logic, receiving logic, etc.).Other non-limiting examples of signal carrier media include, but are not limited to, DVD-ROM, DVD-RAM, DVD+RW, DVD-RW, DVD-R, DVD+R, CD-ROM, Super Audio CD, CD-R, CD+R, CD+RW, CD-RW, video compact discs, super video discs, flash memory, magnetic tape, magneto-optical disc, MINIDISC, non-volatile memory card, EEPROM, optical disc, optical storage, RAM, ROM, system memory, web server, or similar.

[0086] The detailed description presented above in relation to the accompanying drawings, where similar numbers refer to similar elements, is intended as a description of various embodiments of this disclosure and is not intended to represent the only embodiments. Each embodiment described in this disclosure is offered solely by way of example or illustration and should not be construed as being preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. The illustrative examples provided herein are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the specific forms disclosed. Similarly, all the steps described herein may be interchangeable with other steps, or combinations of steps, to achieve the same or substantially similar result.In general, the embodiments disclosed here are not limiting, and the inventors contemplate that other embodiments within the scope of this disclosure may include structures and functionalities from more than one specific embodiment illustrated in the Figures and described in the memorandum.

[0087] In the preceding description, specific details are presented to provide a thorough understanding of the example embodiments of this disclosure. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented without incorporating all the specific details. In some cases, well-known process steps have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure various aspects of this disclosure. Furthermore, it should be noted that the embodiments of this disclosure may employ any combination of features described herein.

[0088] This application may include references to directions, such as "vertical", "horizontal", "front", "back", "left", "right", "top" and "bottom", etc. These references, and other similar references in this application, are intended to help describe and understand the particular embodiment (such as when the embodiment is positioned for use) and are not intended to limit this disclosure to those directions or locations.

[0089] This application may also refer to quantities and numbers. Unless otherwise specified, these quantities and numbers are not to be considered restrictive, but rather as examples of the possible quantities or numbers associated with this application. Similarly, in this respect, this application may use the term "plurality" to refer to a quantity or number. In this context, the term "plurality" is understood to mean any number greater than one, for example, two, three, four, five, etc. The terms "about," "approximately," etc., mean within 5% of the stated value. The term "based on" means "based at least partially on."

[0090] The principles, representative embodiments, and modes of operation of this disclosure have been described in the preceding description. However, aspects of this disclosure that are intended to be protected should not be interpreted as being limited to the particular embodiments disclosed. Furthermore, the embodiments described herein should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive. It should be understood that variations and changes may be made by other means, and equivalents may be used, without departing from the spirit of this disclosure. Accordingly, it is expressly intended that all such variations, changes, and equivalents fall within the spirit and scope of this disclosure as claimed.

Claims

Demands

1. System (1000, 2000, 3000, 4000), comprising: - a device (105, 205, 305, 405) including a first connector symmetrically rotated with respect to a second connector of an accessory (110, 210, 310, 410), the second connector being configured to couple electrically and physically to the first connector in a plurality of orientations; and - a processor configured to: O activate a charge level detection state when the first connector and the accessory (110, 210, 310, 410) are coupled O electrically and physically; O determine a charge level of the accessory (110, 210, 310, 410); O when the charge level is below a first predetermined charge threshold level, switch to a charge state configured to charge the accessory (110, 210, 310, 410) by electrically coupling the accessory (110, 210, 310, 410) to a power source;and O switch back to the load level detection state when the load level reaches or exceeds the first predetermined load threshold level, and the device (105, 205, 305, 405) further including: • a current sensor configured to monitor a current from at least one accessory (110, 210, 310, 410); and • a sensing unit configured to sense the load from at least one accessory (110, 210, 310, 410); • wherein the processor is further configured to: O receive the monitored current from the current sensor; O when the monitored current is below a current threshold, O disconnect the power supply; and O activate the sensing unit.

2. System (1000, 2000, 3000, 4000) according to claim 1, wherein a first plurality of contacts of the first connector has a rotational symmetry of 2 times, 3 times, 4 times, 5 times, 6 times or n times with a second corresponding plurality of contacts of the second connector.

3. System (1000, 2000, 3000, 4000) according to claim 2, wherein a number of contacts in the first plurality of contacts is equal to a number of contacts in the second plurality of contacts.

4. System (1000, 2000, 3000, 4000) according to claim 3, wherein - the first plurality of contacts includes a first central contact and two first auxiliary contacts, and - wherein the second plurality of contacts comprises a second central contact and two second auxiliary contacts.

5. System (1000, 2000, 3000, 4000) according to claim 4, wherein - the first central contact is configured to couple to the second central contact, and - either of the first auxiliary contacts is configured to couple to either of the second auxiliary contacts.

6. System (1000, 2000, 3000, 4000) according to claim 4, wherein the first central contact and the second central contact switch between a load line and a communication line on the basis of the measured load level.

7. System (1000, 2000, 3000, 4000) according to claim 1, wherein at least one accessory (110, 210, 310, 410) further includes a battery and a power line monitoring device, and - wherein when the first connector makes contact with the second connector, the processor is further configured to: O receive a charge level detected by the power line monitoring device; and O when the charge level is below the first predetermined charge threshold, O switch between communication with at least one accessory (110, 210, 310, 410) and charging the battery of at least one accessory (110, 210, 310, 410).

8. System (1000, 2000, 3000, 4000) according to claim 7, wherein the device (105, 205, 305, 405) further comprises a first switching circuit and a first single-line bus, and wherein the processor is further configured to:

9. - when the charge level is below the first predetermined charge threshold, disconnect the power supply; and - activate the first single-line bus. System (1000, 2000, 3000, 4000) according to claim 8, wherein at least one accessory (110, 210, 310, 410) further comprises a second switching circuit and a second single-line bus, and an accessory processor, wherein the accessory processor is configured to: - receive a charge level from the power line monitoring device; - when the load level is below the first predetermined load threshold, transmit the load level to the first processor; - when the charge level is above a second predetermined charge threshold, switch to the second single-wire bus, and - communicate with the first processor to stop the battery charging.

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